English Literature Study Guide for Annual Exam – DAV Public School, Haldia

Tolstoy’s Three Questions teaches that the present moment, the people around us, and acts of kindness matter most, while R.K. Narayan’s Father’s Help highlights honesty through Swami’s false accusations against his teacher. Maugham’s The Luncheon explores irony and hypocrisy when a writer is tricked into an expensive meal, and Bentley’s The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller showcases how observation and logic prevent crime. A Bad Dream by Donn Byrne teaches empathy and the fleeting nature of power. In poetry, Bond’s Granny’s Tree Climbing celebrates an adventurous spirit, and Kalam’s My Mother pays tribute to maternal love and sacrifice. Kipling’s The Children’s Song instills patriotism and values, while Naidu’s Bangle Sellers reflects on Indian traditions through colorful imagery. Pope’s Couplets offer timeless wisdom on morality, judgment, and moderation.

The Daffodils: A Poem of Joy and Remembrance

"I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" recounts the speaker's encounter with a field of daffodils dancing in the breeze beside a lake. The memory of this vibrant scene becomes a source of joy and comfort in moments of solitude, illustrating the enduring power of nature to uplift the human heart. Wordsworth's use of simple language and vivid imagery creates a powerful and accessible poem that celebrates the beauty of the natural world and its ability to nourish the soul.

The Bet

"The Bet" is a thought-provoking story about a bet made between a wealthy banker and a young lawyer over the value of life imprisonment versus the death penalty. The lawyer accepts the challenge of solitary confinement for fifteen years to prove that life, no matter the circumstances, is preferable to death. Over time, his views on material wealth and human existence evolve, culminating in a surprising decision that challenges societal values and personal beliefs.

Abandoned Farmhouse

This lesson aims to guide readers in analyzing the poem’s intricate details and unraveling the emotions and symbolism embedded within its lines. By focusing on the material objects described in the poem, students will explore how physical remnants can narrate untold stories, providing insight into the lives of the individuals who once occupied the farmhouse.